“Autonomy” explores the complex relationship between independence and emotional intimacy. This piece is because of an individual’s father who taught them both the practical skills of working on cars and the value of self-reliance. This piece reflects the tension between empowerment and overprotection. These skills fostered strength and independence but also led to resistance to vulnerability due to a need for self-reliance. The collage features a woman pushing away a man in a car who is making an advance, showing the idea of independence but also a fear of vulnerability. Also in the piece is a woman sitting proudly atop a car and another woman examining an engine, showing comfort in self-sustainability.